Are you craving a mouthwatering, nutritious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this game-changing Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Chili! Imagine coming home to a rich, aromatic dish that's packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and requires minimal effort. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a hands-off 6-hour cooking process, you'll create a restaurant-worthy chili that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and lightly seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves, ensuring they are finely chopped for even distribution of flavor.
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker as the first layer.
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans over the chicken.
- Pour the diced tomatoes with their juice on top of the beans.
- Sprinkle the diced onions and minced garlic evenly across the ingredients.
- Add the chili powder and cumin, distributing the spices thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Gently stir the ingredients to combine the spices without disturbing the layering.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the corn.
- Let the chili sit for an additional 10-15 minutes to warm the corn.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
- Layer Ingredients Strategically: Place chicken at the bottom, followed by beans and other ingredients to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
- Don't Overcook: While slow cookers are forgiving, avoid cooking beyond the recommended 6 hours to prevent dry chicken.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust chili powder and cumin to suit your taste preferences. Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh Garnish is Key: The fresh cilantro isn't just for looks – it adds a bright, fresh finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, swap black beans for kidney beans, or top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This chili freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and enjoy easy meals throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
